LEXUS HYBRID DRIVE
100% Discount Off London Congestion Charge - For further details see latest news
Lexus Hybrid Drive is the fruition of fifteen years of intensive research and development and has already resulted in three breakthrough Lexus models: the RX 400h SUV, the GS 450h performance saloon and the LS 600h luxury flagship saloon. All three hybrids deliver unique combination of low emissions, exceptionally quiet power and fuel efficiency. And, is exempt from the London congestion charge.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system has precisely the type of driving characteristics that are the established hallmark of Lexus drivetrain engineering, being powerful, smooth and refined, yet delivering an engaging and rewarding driving experience. This comes without the penalties of high fuel consumption and exhaust emissions normally associated with such performance levels. The increasing argument for hybrid power
“All car manufacturers will have some form of hybrid very soon or are planning something,” said Karl Schlicht, Vice President Lexus Europe. “I think it’s fair to say that Lexus’s dedication to hybrid technology and our early success have surprised some of the established manufacturers. It is evident that when NOx standards start to bite, diesels will become more expensive and hybrids even more attractive.
“The NOx issue has been avoided in Europe and this needs to change. There is a reason why, in other markets, such as North America and Japan, NOx standards are stricter than in Europe. Level the standards for particulate emissions globally and hybrids become very attractive. Add the performance dimension offered by the RX 400h and the proposition becomes even more interesting,” he said.
“When you consider global economies of scale, this again tilts the balance towards hybrids. Simplify the standards and take NOx into account, then let the consumer decide. “Hybrids will represent a core technological advantage for Lexus. And as for its SUV application in the RX 400h, it’s like letting you enjoy a chocolate sundae – but without the guilt factor.” The Lexus Hybrid Range
The RX 400h all-wheel drive SUV was the world’s first hybrid petrol-electric powered car in the premium segment. Lexus engineers created a completely new hybrid system, with redesigned and refined electrics, mechanical driving components and control elements, ensuring the RX 400h achieved the power and performance appropriate for the brand and for the premium SUV market. This ground-breaking development featured the world’s first series/parallel hybrid system to employ three powerful electric motors and a highly efficient V6 petrol engine, working together to provide an ‘intelligent’ electric all-wheel drive capability and significantly improve low to mid-speed acceleration, braking, fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
More details on the RX 400h
RX 400h Car Showcase
The Lexus GS 450h, introduced in 2006, is the world’s first hybrid performance saloon and the first full hybrid vehicle to use a front-mounted V6 engine with sporting rear-wheel drive. It defies the conventions of the luxury car market by combining the kind of seamless performance comparable to V8-engined rivals with fuel efficiency typical of vehicles from two segments down, giving a driving range of more than 500 miles on a full tank.
More details on the GS 450h
GS 450h Car Showcase
The LS 600h introduces Lexus’s revolutionary high performance hybrid technology to the flagship of the brand. The LS 600h is the world’s first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain, combining a technologically peerless 5.0-litre petrol engine with a powerful, high output electric motor, a newly designed large capacity battery pack, an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (or hybrid transmission) with a two two-stage motor speed reduction device and all-wheel drive.
The LS 600h is named ‘600’ not to indicate the engine’s cubic capacity, but in recognition of power output that is comparable to that from a conventional 6.0-litre petrol engine. The ‘h’ suffix indicates the Lexus Hybrid Drive system.
Thanks to the improvements in noise and vibration levels inherent in its hybrid powertrain, the LS 600h is designed to set new standards in the premium segment for silent running, with an unparalleled depth and density of cabin quietness. It is quite possibly the quietest car in the world.
The hybrid drive system generates a peak combined output of 439bhp (445 DIN hp), but is substantially more fuel-frugal than comparable luxury saloons, returning a class-leading combined consumption of 30.4mpg (9.3l/100km), a figure that is on a par with six-cylinder engines. Moreover, carbon dioxide emissions are 219g/km and emissions of nitrogen oxides are very low.
The LS 600h L goes further in terms of providing first class travelling luxury, with 120mm added to the wheelbase. This space is dedicated entirely to providing extra rear passenger legroom and comfort.
Rear Seat Relaxation Pack is exclusively available for the LS 600h L. This equips the left hand rear seat (on right-hand drive models) with an electric recline function, an electrically adjustable ottoman foot and thigh rest and an adjustable massage function that can replicate techniques from Shiatsu to acupressure. The seat is fitted with seat cushion airbag and, to give a clear view, the front passenger headrest can be electrically folded down.
More details on the LS 600h
LS 600h Car Showcase
In addition, the pack provides an independent rear DVD player and a more sophisticated climate control system that monitors the passengers’ body temperature for more effective control of the cabin environment. A fixed centre console is provided with a built-in cool box, DVD and CD store and a retracting and adjustable wood inlaid tray.